2nd LD Writethru: Massive quake jolts northern India

A massive earthquake jolted the Indian capital and several other cities in northern India Monday, a senior disaster management official said.

However, there have been no reports of any casualty or any major damage to property till now, the official said, on condition of anonymity.

According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the quake measured 7.5 on the Richter Scale and its epicentre was Hindu Kush mountains in Afghanistan, the same magnitude that had hit Nepal in April.

The USSG earlier said quake was at 7.5 magtitude.

"Soon after the quake, tremors were felt for over a minute in Delhi and other parts of northern India, including the Indian-controlled Kashmir, at 2.30 p.m. (local time)," the official said.

Local TV channels showed footage of people rushing out of high-rise buildings and office complexes in panic and reported that Metro rail services have been suspended in the Indian capital.

Senior disaster management officials have rushed to various areas to assess any damage to properties in far-flung areas, the official said. Endit